Mihir Kumar [#09]: Why the MLS has Launched a Venture Fund In-House

Today’s episode, I’m joined by Mihir Kumar.

Mihir is Senior Director for MLS Emerging Ventures, the in-house investment arm for Major League Soccer. Having taken up the role just over a year ago, it perfectly compliments his previous experience in finance (at BCG) and sport (at Overtime).

Recently MLS Emerging Ventures announced the launch of the MLS Innovation Lab, a program designed to shape the future of sports through the identification of cutting-edge startups and advanced technologies to help develop the next generation of athletes, enhance the fan experience and drive continued growth for the League and its Clubs. 

In this conversation, we talk about what spurred this innovation, the companies in the initial cohort, and the areas of interest for potential future cohorts.

Time Stamps

3:00 - Mihir’s Experience Working at Overtime

5:00 - Launching the MLS Innovation Lab

8:00 - Applying Innovation Across the MLS Ecosystem

12:00 - Sourcing Investment Opportunities 

13:00 - The Initial Cohort of MLS Innovation Lab

19:00 - Figuring out the ‘Moat’ and Confronting Competition 

25:00 - Areas of Focus for MLS Innovation Labs’ Future Cohorts

30:00 - TOCA and Opportunities Around Live Experiences

32:00 - Could MLS Create their Own Consumer Products within Health & Wellness? 

Additional Links

MLS Launches Innovation Lab Startup Accelerator Program

Game On: Experiential Venues Worth a Shot to Engage Fans Outside the Stadium

Sweaty Equity: Why Sports Leagues are Setting up Investment Funds

Chelsea FC launches new sports nutrition app called Blue Fuel

PRIME Example: Rightsholders could benefit from Dodging industry incumbents

Connect with Mihir on LinkedIn - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Andy on LinkedIn - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here